Acknowledgements
Foreword
Conservation
Introduction
The Aim of This Book
Structure
Species Accounts
Glossary
Further Reading
Index

Featuring 130 of the most common and readily identifiable species, this illustrated pocket guide is the ideal companion for anyone interested in the naturally occurring spiders found in the British Isles. Presented in a portable and accessible format, this is the perfect guide for both beginners and more experienced enthusiasts. Featuring stunning artwork by the world-renowned invertebrate artist Richard Lewington, this pocket guide covers 130 species of spider, as well as illustrations of webs, egg cocoons and spider behaviour. The introduction features an 'at-a-glance' guide providing a quick reference to each species, with corresponding page numbers to find out more. Additional sections clearly explain how the reader can distinguish similar species, and the book also includes a glossary and bibliography to aid beginners. Each species account includes a detailed description covering field characteristics, habitat and distribution, webs, egg cocoons and similar species. Species accounts are interspersed with beautifully illustrated spreads showing similar, confusion species, making this the perfect companion for use in the field.A contribution from the sale of each book is made to the British Arachnological Society.

Richard Lewington is an acknowledged leader in the field of insect illustration. His meticulous paintings of wildlife are the mainstay of many of the modern classics of field-guide art, including The Butterflies of Britain and Ireland, Field Guide to the Moths of Great Britain and Ireland, and Field Guide to the Bees of Great Britain and Ireland. In 1999, Richard was awarded Butterfly Conservation's Marsh Award for the promotion of Lepidoptera conservation, and in 2010 the Zoological Society of London's Stamford Raffles Award for contribution to zoology.